If your breasts have begun to sag, mastopexy or breast lift surgery can lift them to their former, youthful position. Aging, pregnancy/breastfeeding, and weight loss are all potential causes of breast sagging.

Dr. Ledding has performed countless successful breast lifts. Every patient is unique, however, so he will spend time with you during your initial consultation and examination to discuss your options and his recommended surgical plan for you.

Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Lift?

It is best to postpone mastopexy until after you plan no further pregnancies or substantial weight loss.

Note that a breast lift does not increase the size of your breasts. In fact, it can often make them look slightly smaller. For women who would like to lift their breasts and also increase their size, Dr. Ledding can perform a combination breast lift and breast augmentation. Women who would like to have a round, full upper breast also often need an implant in addition to their lift.

Is Mastopexy an Outpatient Procedure?

Mastopexy is usually performed with the patient under general anesthesia, but it is an outpatient procedure in almost all cases.

What Incisions Are Used For a Breast Lift?

The incisions depend on your individual case, but they are usually either around the areolas, vertically from the bottom of the areolas to the breast crease, and/or horizontally across the breast crease. The incision around the areolas is always necessary, while the other two incisions may or may not be necessary depending upon the degree of lift required.

What Happens During a Breast Lift?

During the surgery, Dr. Ledding removes any excess skin, and lifts and reshapes the breasts and nipples as needed. If the areolas have been stretched and become misshapen, he will reshape them. If you have inverted or enlarged nipples, Dr. Ledding may be able to address these issues during the surgery as well. He will discuss this with you during your consultation.

The incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures.

What Happens Immediately After a Breast Lift?

After some time spent in the recovery room following your surgery, you will be allowed to go home. You will need someone to drive you, however.

You will be given a support bra to wear for six weeks after your surgery, as well as instructions for caring for your incisions.

When Can I Return to Work After a Breast Lift?

Most women take one to two weeks off from work and resume exercise or sports activities in six to eight weeks. If your occupation is physically demanding, you may need six to eight weeks off work as well.

What Post-Operative Symptoms Can I Expect After a Breast Lift?

Your recovery will include some bruising, a feeling of tightness, and pain for a couple of weeks. You can take prescription or non-prescription medications to ease you through this period.

Swelling takes a bit longer to resolve, gradually improving over a period of weeks. If you sleep sitting up for a few nights, you will probably feel more comfortable and might even reduce the initial swelling. You should avoid sleeping on your sides for a period of six weeks.

You will see Dr. Ledding for follow-up examinations.

Are There Scars After a Breast Lift?

There are scars after a breast lift, but they will fade and become smoother during the months following your surgery. We can also provide products that will aid in their healing.

Contact our office for a consultation to discuss how a breast lift (mastopexy) with Dr. Ledding can help you feel more confident about your appearance.